Olu of Warri at 5: Atuwatse III calls for national unity, cultural renewal

Olu of Warri at 5: Atuwatse III calls for national unity, cultural renewal His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, delivered a powerful speech emphasizing national unity and cultural renewal during the fifth anniversary of his coronation. The event took place in Warri, Delta State, and featured a wide array of dignitaries, including traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials, military commanders, diplomats, business leaders, and other notable figures. The celebration marked a significant moment for the Itsekiri people and served as a platform for the monarch to outline his vision for the future of the Warri Kingdom. The anniversary ceremony was designed to highlight the rich cultural heritage of the Itsekiri community. It also allowed the Olu to reflect on his five years in power and to articulate a forward-looking agenda for the kingdom. Among those present were high-profile guests such as the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu; the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa; Senator Joel-Onowakpo; the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; representatives from both the Delta and federal governments; service commanders; and traditional rulers from across Nigeria. Monarchs from various regions joined the Olu to celebrate the milestone. These included traditional leaders from the North, such as the Emir of Zazzau representing the Sultan and the Emir of Kano; those from the South-West, including the Alaafin of Oyo, the Olowo of Owo, and a representative of the Ooni of Ife; the Eze Arochukwu leading the delegation from the East; and traditional rulers from within Delta State itself. In his address, the Olu expressed deep gratitude to God for the blessings and achievements of his reign. He noted the overwhelming support received as evidence of the importance of unity under the monarchy and the broader role of traditional institutions. “We are deeply inspired by the kindness that God has shown us which calls for all of us to reunite, rally around the crown and the greater purpose we have been entrusted with,” he stated. Atuwatse III emphasized that the traditional institution must evolve beyond mere ceremonial duties to serve as a force for unity, development, and intergenerational responsibility. He described the crown not just as an honor, but as a responsibility to be safeguarded and a purpose to be shared collectively. “Our strength is not found in the numbers we exclude, but rather in the multitude that can be inspired, empowered and brought together for a common purpose,” he added. He urged his people to move past historical divisions and focus on building connections rather than barriers. “We cannot allow past distances to prevent future unity; we must rightly build bridges where necessary and not walls,” he declared. The Olu also called for a transformation in how society approaches culture, tradition, leadership, and development. While acknowledging the value of traditions, he argued that communities must critically assess inherited practices and adapt them to suit contemporary needs. He differentiated between tradition and culture, stating that culture encompasses the ways people live, while traditions are customs passed down through generations. According to the Olu, although the past cannot be altered, the future is within reach through deliberate action. This perspective underscores a broader vision for the Itsekiri people and the nation at large, one rooted in innovation, inclusivity, and shared purpose.